WSYR Local News

Oneida Wastewater Treatment Plant Closed Because of Flash Flooding

(Oneida, NY) The Oneida Creek was expected to crest at 2 p.m. Friday and streets were underwater in Downtown Oneida after a levy overflowed at two points along the creek. Residents from 4 streets were safely evacuated by boats. Now residents are asked not to use water or flush toilets because the wastewater treatment plant has been forced to shut down.

So far, no one has been hurt. But John Rauscher - head of Public Works - says residents who try to return to their homes while the water is still high, are pufor the City of Oneida says residents who try to return to their homes before the water subsides are putting their safety at risk.

Three residents in Herkimer were evacuated by emergency crews this morning.

Flood Warnings are ineffect until further notice for: Oneida Creek; the Chenango River at Sherburne; the Mohawk River at Utica and the Mohawk River at Little Falls.

The Red Cross has opened shelters for flood victims. One shelter is at the Armory on Cedar Street in Oneida. Another is at Mohawk Valley community college in Utica.